The Made by Google 2024 event has reached an end, and after a busy rumor mill preceding the event, we have the full range of announcements and reveals from Google’s biggest hardware event of the year.
Made by Google 2024 event: Pixel and AI at center stage
The Made by Google 2024 event was a whirlwind of innovation and excitement, setting the stage for what’s to come in the tech world. Hosted at Google’s headquarters in Mountain View, California, the event kicked off with a series of live demonstrations and keynotes that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
The focal point of the event was undoubtedly Google’s new AI assistant, Gemini, which dominated much of the discussion and demonstrations. Despite some hiccups during the live demos, the capabilities of Gemini AI were showcased effectively, highlighting its potential to revolutionize user interactions with technology. From answering complex queries to generating detailed reports, Gemini’s versatility was on full display.
In addition to the AI-centric announcements, the unveiling of the Pixel 9 lineup drew significant attention. The new models, including the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and the foldable Pixel 9 Pro Fold, impressed with their sleek designs and powerful hardware upgrades. The integration of advanced AI features into these devices promises to enhance user experience, making everyday tasks more intuitive and efficient.
Let’s not skip a beat and check out all the new stuff.
Pixel 9 lineup announced
Google has officially unveiled the Pixel 9 lineup at the Made by Google 2024 event, featuring three new models: the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL. These smartphones come with significant hardware upgrades and advanced AI capabilities, powered by Google’s latest Tensor G4 chip. Designed in collaboration with Google DeepMind, the new chip enhances the devices’ AI performance, making interactions smoother and more intuitive. The Pixel 9 series also introduces Gemini Nano, a multimodal AI system that significantly improves user experience by enabling more natural conversations and smarter assistance.
Gemini Live launched for Android
Google has introduced Gemini Live, a new conversational AI assistant available exclusively to Google One AI Premium subscribers. This innovative feature allows users to engage in more realistic and responsive dialogues with their devices. Gemini Live’s architecture, powered by the Gemini 1.5 Pro model, boasts an extended context window, enabling it to handle prolonged interactions effectively. This advanced AI assistant aims to provide a more human-like interaction, setting it apart from previous voice-activated assistants and enhancing the overall user experience on Android devices.
Improved cameras on Pixel 9
The Pixel 9 series brings notable enhancements to its camera system, cementing Google’s reputation for mobile photography excellence. Both the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro feature higher resolution sensors, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL boasts a larger 6.8-inch display for better visual output. Each model integrates Google’s Gemini AI for smarter photo processing and editing. New features include the “Add Me” function, which intelligently inserts the photographer into group photos, and an upgraded Magic Editor with auto-framing capabilities. These advancements ensure that users can capture and edit stunning images with minimal effort.
Pixel 9 Pro Fold unveiled
Google has taken a bold step into the foldable phone market with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This second-generation foldable device features an 8-inch display when fully opened, offering users a larger, more immersive screen. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is designed to be thinner and more durable than its predecessor, with enhanced camera capabilities that align with the rest of the Pixel 9 lineup. Priced at $1,799, it comes equipped with the Gemini AI assistant, promising a seamless blend of innovative hardware and advanced AI functionalities for a premium user experience.
AI-powered photo-editing
Made by Google 2024 event showed us that Google continues to push the boundaries of mobile photography with a suite of new AI-powered photo-editing tools for the Pixel 9 series. The updated Magic Editor now includes features like auto-framing, which intelligently repositions subjects for optimal composition. Additionally, the Pixel Studio app allows users to generate images using text prompts, leveraging on-device AI for creative photo enhancements. These tools aim to make professional-quality photo editing accessible to all users, ensuring that every shot captured on a Pixel device can be perfected with ease.
Pixel Watch 3 now in two sizes
The Pixel Watch 3 lineup has expanded to include two sizes: the original 41 mm and a new, larger 45 mm model. Both versions feature a larger display with reduced bezels, offering twice the brightness of their predecessors. This year’s updates also include a range of new features powered by AI, enhancing the watch’s functionality and user experience. Despite the significant upgrades, pricing and availability details remain under wraps. The new size options ensure that the Pixel Watch 3 can cater to a broader range of users, providing more choices for those looking for a smart, stylish wearable.
Pixel Watch 3 unveils ‘loss of pulse’ detection
Google’s Pixel Watch 3 introduces a groundbreaking health feature: ‘loss of pulse’ detection. This advanced functionality can identify when the user’s heart stops beating effectively, potentially due to events like cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. In such cases, the watch automatically contacts emergency services and shares the user’s location, providing a critical lifeline in emergencies. This feature underscores Google’s commitment to health and safety, making the Pixel Watch 3 not just a stylish accessory, but a potentially life-saving device.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 with Gemini
The Pixel Buds Pro 2 have arrived, bringing Google’s latest AI advancements to the forefront of audio technology. These earbuds are now equipped with Gemini Live, enabling more natural and responsive voice interactions. Additionally, the new Tensor A1 chip reduces the earbuds’ size by 27% while enhancing performance. Priced at $229, the Pixel Buds Pro 2 offer an impressive blend of cutting-edge AI features and superior sound quality, positioning them as a compelling choice for tech-savvy audiophiles.
‘Made You Look’ feature for photos
Google introduces the ‘Made You Look’ feature to help capture better photos of children. Utilizing the front-facing camera on foldable screens, this feature displays engaging visuals to grab the attention of young subjects, making it easier to capture smiles and natural expressions. Future updates will include licensed characters like Joy from “Inside Out,” adding a fun element to family photo sessions. This innovative feature aims to make photography more enjoyable and effective, especially for parents with fussy kids.
Joy from Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out will be landing on #Pixel9 Pro Fold in an upcoming Pixel Feature Drop to help your kids look at the camera when taking photos.¹ Check out all the colorful #MadeYouLook visuals soon.#MadeByGoogle pic.twitter.com/rhDJS3NAOc
— Made by Google (@madebygoogle) August 13, 2024
Pixel Weather app introduced
The new Pixel Weather app makes its debut at the Made by Google 2024 event, bringing advanced AI capabilities to weather forecasting. Customizable to user preferences, the app delivers personalized weather reports and context-aware forecasts. Powered by Google’s Gemini Nano, it goes beyond standard weather apps by offering detailed insights tailored to individual needs. Whether you want to see just the essentials or delve into comprehensive weather data, Pixel Weather provides a smart, user-friendly experience.
Google TV streamer replaces Chromecast
Marking the end of an era, Google has announced the new Google TV streamer, officially replacing the long-standing Chromecast line. This $100 device does more than stream content; it acts as a smart home hub for Google Home and Matter-powered devices. While it retains Google Assistant for voice control, upcoming Gemini-powered upgrades promise to enhance its functionality further. The Google TV streamer represents a significant step forward in integrating streaming and smart home management into a single, cohesive device.
Gemini AI’s new ‘Deep Research’ feature
Google has unveiled a new feature for its Gemini AI, called ‘Deep Research.’ This tool is designed to assist users with complex tasks by gathering information from multiple sources and synthesizing it into comprehensive reports. Whether you’re planning a project or making a big decision, Gemini’s ‘Deep Research’ can provide detailed guides and insights. This feature aims to streamline the research process, making it easier for users to compile and understand large amounts of information efficiently.
Nest thermostats updated with AI
Google has refreshed its Nest Thermostats for the first time in nearly a decade, integrating the power of Gemini AI. The updated Nest Learning Thermostat now features more natural language interactions, allowing users to control their home environment with ease. This update follows a challenging period for the Nest brand, aiming to rejuvenate its appeal in the smart home market. Priced at $280, the new thermostat offers revamped hardware and enhanced AI capabilities, promising improved efficiency and user experience.
Enhanced AI features in Pixel 9 series
The Pixel 9 series is packed with enhanced AI features, setting a new standard for smart devices. Powered by the latest Tensor G4 chip and Gemini Nano AI, these phones offer a range of intelligent functionalities. From the “Add Me” photo feature, which intelligently includes the photographer in group shots, to advanced image editing and personalized weather reports, the Pixel 9 series leverages AI to deliver a more intuitive and seamless user experience. These enhancements ensure that the Pixel 9 is not just a smartphone, but a powerful AI assistant in your pocket.
AI-powered Clear Calling and Call Notes
Google’s AI innovations extend to phone calls with the introduction of Clear Calling and Call Notes in the Pixel 9 series. Clear Calling enhances audio quality by reducing background noise and improving voice clarity. Meanwhile, Call Notes provides users with an AI-generated summary and full transcript of their conversations, accessible shortly after hanging up. These features operate entirely on-device, ensuring privacy and security while enhancing communication efficiency. With these additions, Google aims to redefine the way users handle phone calls and manage information.
Live demos highlight Gemini AI’s capabilities
The Made by Google 2024 event showcased the impressive capabilities of Gemini AI through a series of live demonstrations. Despite a rocky start, the demos highlighted Gemini’s proficiency in various tasks, such as writing emails, building playlists, and brainstorming ideas. These live showcases emphasized the practical applications of Gemini AI, demonstrating its potential to transform everyday interactions with technology. Google’s commitment to live demos underlines their confidence in Gemini’s real-world performance and its ability to enhance user experience across multiple platforms.
Featured image credit: Google
